Urinary tract infections: Proven Diagnosis & Treatments

The urinary system filters waste and toxins from the blood to produce urine. It plays an important role in maintaining the body’s ideal fluid balance and controlling pH. However, urinary tract infections and other illnesses can significantly affect urinary health.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most prevalent bacterial infections, affecting more than 50% of women and 12% of men in their lifetime. UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract and multiply in the bladder, urethra, ureters, or kidneys. Bladder infections, or cystitis, are the most common form of UTI. A more serious kidney infection known as pyelonephritis can also occur.

In addition to infections, additional conditions that can affect the urinary system include bladder stones, incontinence, and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men. Incontinence is the inability to control urine, and leaking urine when coughing, laughing or during physical activity. More than 13 million Americans struggle with some form of incontinence. Kidney stones form when minerals and salts in the urine form crystalline crystals, which can cause severe pain when urinating or passing the stone. BPH involves a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that puts pressure on the urethra, causing urinary symptoms such as a weak stream, straining and frequent urination.

Both men and women need to receive proper diagnosis, treatment and preventive care to maintain urinary health. This article will provide an overview of common urinary tract infections and disorders, including information on causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and available treatments. We’ll also explore lifestyle adjustments and self-care suggestions that can help prevent urinary issues and support the overall health of the bladder and kidneys.

Anatomy of the Urinary System

The kidneys, or renal system; the ureters, the bladder, and the urethra are all parts of the urinary system.

Kidneys are bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine that filter blood and remove waste and excess fluid to produce urine. Millions of nephrons in the kidneys filter blood and produce urine.

The narrow pipes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder are known as ureters. Each kidney has one ureter that connects to the bladder. Urine is temporarily stored in the hollow, muscular structure of the bladder. It can comfortably store 16 ounces of urine for two to five hours after dilation.

Urine is carried from the bladder to the outside of the body through the urethra. In men, the urethra passes through the male reproductive organ. In women, this is a small tube that opens in front of the vagina.

The urinary system works by pumping blood past the kidneys, to remove waste and produce urine. The urine travels from the kidneys down the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it is excreted from the body through the urethra. The muscles of the bladder wall contract to empty the bladder when it reaches capacity.

Common Types of Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) – A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that can occur anywhere in the urinary tract, such as the kidney (pyelonephritis), urethra, or bladder (cystitis). It is usually caused by E. coli bacteria from the intestines.

Kidney Infection – An infection in one or both kidneys is also called pyelonephritis. This can cause permanent kidney damage and lead to kidney failure if left untreated. Usually, this infection is spread through a Urinary Tract Infections.

Prostatitis – An infection or inflammation of the prostate gland is known as prostatitis. Although it affects men of all ages, those over 50 experience it most frequently. The prostate becomes swollen, painful and tender.

Urethritis – An infection or inflammation of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder, is called urethritis. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as Gonorrhea and chlamydia are frequent causes. Burning urine and discharge are the symptoms.

Causes and Risk Factors

Bacteria: The most common cause of urinary tract infections (UTIs) is bacteria, especially E.coli from the digestive tract, that enter the urinary tract and travel to the bladder. Because women have smaller urethras than men, they are at greater risk of UTIs because bacteria can enter them more quickly.

Sexual activity: Sexual activity can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract, so sexually active women are more likely to develop UTIs. Both spermicides and diaphragm use can increase the risk of Urinary Tract Infections.

Catheters: These provide a direct route for bacteria to enter the bladder. Those who have catheters for medical conditions are at increased risk of catheter-related Urinary Tract Infections.

Pregnancy: Pregnant women are prone to urinary tract infections (UTIs) as the growing uterus puts pressure on the bladder and ureters, preventing the complete emptying of urine. Hormonal changes in pregnancy cause muscles to relax, preventing urine from moving to the kidneys.

Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes increases the risk of infection with Urinary Tract Infections. As blood glucose levels rise, sugar is released into the urine, which encourages bacterial growth. Diabetic nerve damage to the signalling neurons of the bladder can also cause urine retention.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of a urinary tract infection include:

• Burning sensation during urination: One of the most common symptoms of a urinary tract infection is a burning sensation while urinating. Bacteria cause inflammation in the urinary tract, causing inflammation. Usually, the burning sensation increases immediately after urination.
• Increased urgency and frequency: Another distinguishing feature is the need to urinate more frequently and urgently. The bladder can hold urine for an average of 2 to 5 hours, but if you have a Urinary Tract Infections, you may need to urinate every 15 to 20 minutes.
• Pain or pressure: Some people experience feeling pressure or pain in the pelvic or lower abdomen. It can be either an intense pain or a long-lasting pain.
• Cloudy, bloody, or foul-smelling urine: An infection can change the color and smell of urine. Urine may be foul-smelling and pungent, appear cloudy or murky, or show signs of bleeding.
• Other symptoms: A Urinary Tract Infections may cause a low-grade fever, chills, and general discomfort. Bacteria from the urinary system can spread via the blood and induce an inflammatory reaction.

In addition to this, a Urinary Tract Infections may lead to chills, tiny rises in temperature also referred to as low-grade fever and general uneasiness. Urinary tract bacteria have the potential to disseminate into the bloodstream resulting in a bacterial inflammatory reaction.

Diagnosis

• Urine tests are among the techniques doctors use to diagnose a condition most of the time. Urine examination looks at the color, density, and chemical content of urine. It can detect infections, blood, proteins, and much more. A urine culture, on the other hand, focuses on the presence of bacteria in the sample to determine an infection.
• Diagnostic procedures such as ultrasounds, CT scans, MRIs or X-rays permit the doctor to see inside the urinary tract. They can identify any issues with the structures of the body, growths, kidney issues, and blockages.
• Cystoscopy involves the use of a slender telescopic tube-shaped instrument known as a cystoscope. It is placed into the urethra and the bladder. This allows the doctor to examine the lining and make sure everything is normal. It may be done when cancer is suspected or to remove bladder stones if present in the body.
• These diagnostic tests assist in establishing the cause of urinary symptoms. Hence, based on the obtained results the doctor will be in a position to recommend the required action to be taken.

Treatment

The following are the various methods that can be used in the management of urinary tract infections and disorders:

Antibiotics: Many doctors recommend antibiotics to combat Urinary Tract Infections. This depends on the type of infection and also the kind of bacteria that is causing the infection. Some common antibiotics used for Urinary Tract Infections include:

• Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole
• Fosfomycin
• Nitrofurantoin
• Ciprofloxacin

It’s also necessary to complete the entire course of the antibiotic as directed by the healthcare provider or physician even in case the symptoms disappear after some time. If treatment is stopped too early it leaves the opportunity for the infection to come back. It is advisable to take a lot of water when on an antibiotic to help urinate the bacteria out of the system.

Hydration: If any Urinary Tract Infections is present, one must ensure that he or she is taking enough fluids. Drinking water and other forms of fluids assist in diluting the urine hence helping in washing bacteria. The recommended daily fluid intake is in the range of 6-8 glasses that contain 8 ounces each. Do not consume alcohol or caffeine-containing products, as the bladder can be irritated by them.

Pain Relief: Urinary Tract Infections may lead to such symptoms as pelvic pain or discomfort in the bladder region. These symptoms can be managed by over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen. Some other ways are to use heating pads placed over the lower abdomen for comfort.

Home Remedies and Modifications

There are some natural remedies and changes to our diet and daily activities that can be used either in preventing or treating urinary infections.

• Cranberry Juice: Cranberry juice contains chemicals that stop the bacteria from attaching itself to the urinary system. A study published in national library of medicine show that frequent consumption of unsweetened cranberry juice may be effective in preventing recurrent UTIs. Patients with a history of kidney stones should limit their consumption.
• Probiotics: Probiotic supplements containing Lactobacillus may help prevent the occurrence of UTIs, particularly in women. Probiotics are responsible for maintaining the balance of bacteria within the human body and preventing the overgrowth of unhealthy bacteria.
• Hygiene: The bacteria can be prevented from entering the urinary tract through proper hygiene. Clean the genital area from front to back after using the bathroom, urinate before and after intercourse, and do not use products that can irritate the genital area. Moreover, ensure you take plenty of fluids and urinate often.
• Fluids: Drinking lots of fluids thins down the urine to wash out bacteria. Drinking water is recommended to be 6-8 glasses a day and sometimes drinking herbal tea also helps. One should avoid taking too much coffee and alcohol because they may irritate the bladder. Some basic habits that can be avoided include wearing loose cotton underwear, engaging in sexual intercourse and not urinating after it, as well as wearing soaked clothes or swimwear for long. As a result, the timely diagnosis of the condition is crucial in making sure that severe problems do not arise.

Complications

If Urinary Tract Infections is not treated, it can result in several complications. There are 2 significant issues to consider, which are acute kidney injury and sepsis.

• Kidney Damage: When the infection has affected the kidneys, it creates a condition known as Pyelonephritis. This leads to inflammation of the kidneys and can otherwise seriously harm them. Chronic kidney diseases from Urinary Tract Infections are more often experienced by those who experience recurrent infections. These may lead to scarring of the kidney tissue, making the kidney lose its function gradually. This may ultimately result in kidney damage. An article published on Allmedscare.com is really useful if you need to know more on Kidney damage in detail.
• Sepsis: Sepsis is one of the most severe conditions that occur when an individual has an extreme reaction to infection. This leads to inflammation of the tissues and organs throughout the body. Sepsis due to the UTI is usually a condition that develops when the infection goes systemic and enters the bloodstream. The bacteria produce enzymes, which enter the bloodstream and stimulate the immune response. This results in continuous inflammatory processes leading to organ failure and sometimes death. If a person develops symptoms of sepsis such as high temperature, breathing at a high rate, pulse rate, and mental confusion, one needs to seek emergency treatment. Sepsis is potentially deadly, but when diagnosed early and properly managed, it can be treated. They are, however, fatal if not treated promptly.